CSS is one of the proofs of the multi-faceted nature of technology. CSS should not be viewed as an object traveling in a straight and very predictable manner. Rather, CSS is an object that travels from several directions that hit a single, distinct mark. CSS is a synergistic blend of several elements and principles toward the attainment of a definitive purpose. One of these principles is the elements of design in CSS.

These elements of design can be enumerated as follows: balance, proportion, rhythm, dominance, line and point. These elements are not to be treated independently from one another but should be treated as constituting an intricate fabric of what is known as web design.

Balance is the same as equilibrium which can be asymmetrical or symmetrical. Symmetrical balance indicates equilibrium between dominant elements that give equal visual weight in relation to any person’s eyes viewing a page.

Rhythm denotes a sense of repetition or alternation. Rhythm is achieved by intentionally placing elements in a page alternately as against each of the elements or repetitively. This creates a sort of emotional appeal. Rhythm can be progressive, regular or flowing.

Proportion means equivalence in terms of size and composition of elements. This is essential in creating an area that will generate attention and will focus the viewer’s eyes.

Dominance on the other hand is synonymous to emphasis and very much related to proportion; the only difference being this—dominance does not make as its primary object the creation of symmetrical relationship between elements found on a page.

Meanwhile, point as an element of design is a mark found in space or area. It has no extension which is the opposite of line which is a combination of a number of points place side by side to create a definite form.

Finally, color is a product of light’s wavelengths. Colors may have various degree of value, saturation or hue. These attributes distinguishes one color from another.

These elements of design are the primary reasons that make a given web page or site visually appealing. As visual appeal is very significant to any web page, these elements must be carefully given attention so that the visual appeal potential of any page is maximized.

We usually think that it’s content which is most important. This is perfectly fine. But, we should also consider the fact that before any viewer reads a page’s content, the visual appeal is the first thing he or she notices and thus exemplifies the very reason why it has to be properly given significance.

Nevertheless, a given page though possessing all these elements need not concentrate on revealing all of them. It is common practice that a given page will only concentrate on one or two of these elements as dictated by the website’s purpose.

Tags: Principles and Elements of Design